The latest issue of Newsweek highlights Vermont's race for the U.S. House as one of three (along with Virginia and Iowa) Election 2006 "hot spots" in which the war is playing a factor.

The item cites Republican Martha Rainville, former commander of the Vermont National Guard, as saying a troop pullout would help the insurgent, while Democrat Peter Welch wants a withdrawal plan. "Welch's anti-war stance resonates in this liberal state. To counter, Rainville has emphasized the need for more body armor."

_ TH